Five Things to Look for in Dental Insurance for Your Family

Last updated Jul 25, 2018

If you have medical insurance through your employer, chances are high that dental coverage isn’t included. Many businesses opt to not include dental coverage for their employees so that they are able to provide health coverage for as cheaply as possible. Because visiting the dentist can be expensive, you may want to purchase private dental insurance for your family to help alleviate some of the drain on your budget. Here are five things to consider when shopping for private dental coverage:

1.Choice of Dentist

If you’ve had the same dentist for years and your family is comfortable with that person, you’ll want to choose an insurance plan that allows you to keep your current dentist. Just like some medical insurance plans, some dental insurance plans require that you choose from a select list of providers. You’ll want to be aware of this if you want to be able to visit the dentist that you prefer.

2.Deductibles and Co-Pays

Again, just as with medical insurance, dental insurance is available with a variety of deductible and co-payment options. The higher you set your deductibles, the lower your monthly premiums will be. When choosing your deductibles and co-pays, stop to consider how much money you can realistically afford to pay out-of-pocket. It doesn’t make any sense to set high deductibles in order to save a few dollars a month if you won’t be able to afford your care.

3.Covered Services

There are dozens of different dental insurance plans available so be sure to look for a policy that offers you the coverage you need. If you have young children, you may want to find a dental insurance plan that covers fillings, tooth repair and even orthodontic work. If you only visit the dentist to have your teeth cleaned, these coverages may be a waste of money. Before you choose a policy, take a good look at the fine print to determine what services are covered and which are excluded.

4.Annual Limits

Depending on the coverage you choose, you’ll have certain annual limits. This means that once you reach your limit, you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. Just like deductibles, your annual limits can have an effect on your monthly premiums. Typically, the higher your annual limits are, the higher your monthly payments will be.

5.Discount Dental Plan vs. Dental Insurance

When you’re shopping for dental insurance, make sure that you understand the difference between discount dental plans and actual dental insurance. Discount dental plans will make your dental bills cheaper, saving you between 15 and 50 percent of the cost of your visit. Dental insurance, on the other hand, will cover the costs of your dental visits, less deductibles and co-pays. Comparing discount dental plans and dental insurance policies side-by-side can help you choose the best option for you and your family.

If you have been avoiding the dentist simply because you can’t afford to go, private dental insurance can help you maintain your healthy smile. Whether you choose a dental insurance policy or a discount dental plan, having help paying your bills can ensure that you and your family are able to visit the dentist before a minor issue becomes a major one.

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